2023 NRL Finals Week 1 preview, betting picks and odds

The schedule for the week of the 2023 NRL Premiership Finals Series has been revealed, promising a start to the highly anticipated playoffs.

After a season, fans are eagerly awaiting to see which teams will emerge victorious and secure their spot in the 2023 NRL Grand Final. Andrew Abdo, the CEO of the NRL, expressed his enthusiasm, highlighting that the final positions in the eight were decided in the match.

With a record-breaking season that drew over 3.7 million attendees and witnessed a 20 percent increase in crowd compared to last year, it’s evident that rugby league continues to captivate the nation’s hearts.

2023 NRL Finals Week One Draw & Odds

Let’s take a look at the Week One matchups, odds available at the top betting sites and the early prediction before teams are announced:

Brisbane Broncos vs Melbourne Storm Preview – Finals Week 1

The Brisbane Broncos will look to redeem themselves as they once again host the Melbourne Storm at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night.

It’s worth noting that Brisbane has faced a significant challenge against Melbourne, as they have not beaten them at Suncorp Stadium since 2009, and their losing streak extends to 14 straight games dating back to 2016.

With the current form, expect a repeat of last week and a winning performance from the Melbourne Storm between 1-12 points.

Penrith Panthers vs New Zealand Warriors Preview – Finals Week 1

The New Zealand Warriors are slated to face off against the Panthers in the early Saturday game, marking their return to the NRL finals after a five-year hiatus.

In contrast, the Penrith Panthers have established themselves as the standard-bearers in the NRL. They’ve participated in three consecutive grand finals, clinching the championship in 2021 and 2022, and have once again secured the minor premiership this season.

Thanks to their top-four finish this year, the New Zealand Warriors have earned a valuable second chance in the playoffs. A victory against the Panthers on Saturday would propel them directly to a home final in the third week of the playoffs.

However, a loss would see them compete in a home final in the second week, facing the winner of the elimination final between the Newcastle Knights and the Canberra Raiders.

Depending on whether both teams are at full strength, it is hard to see this game going any other way than the Panthers winning by 13+ points.

Cronulla Sharks vs Sydney Roosters Preview – Finals Week 1

Cronulla coach Craig Fitzgibbon is excited about facing his long-term mentor, Trent Robinson, as the Sharks prepare for a crucial NRL elimination final against the Sydney Roosters.

The Sydney Roosters have been in excellent form, winning five straight games and welcoming back Joey Manu.

While Robinson jokingly credited Fitzgibbon’s Sharks for helping them secure a top-eight spot, there are no favors expected in this showdown.

Fitzgibbon aims to prove the Cronulla Sharks’ worth in September after a home final win over Canberra. The clash between the old faces promises to be an intense battle in the first week of the finals.

With the odds available and the current form, it is hard to turn down the -104.17 on offer for the Sydney Roosters to win. If you are looking for a safer bet, over 40 points seems to be it.

Newcastle Knights vs Canberra Raiders Preview – Finals Week 1

Canberra is set to embark on a challenging mission as they travel to Newcastle to take on the Knights this Sunday. The Newcastle Knights have been undefeated at McDonald Jones Stadium since April, adding to the Raiders’ daunting task.

The Canberra Raiders have only secured victory in two of their last seven matches and are facing a significant setback with Seb Kris potentially serving a lengthy suspension.

In contrast, the Knights are riding a nine-game winning streak and are currently considered one of the NRL’s top-performing teams.

Expect the Newcastle Knights to win by 13+ Points.

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